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Francisco Mangado
One of the emblematic figures of Spanish architecture, Francisco Mangado, has just received worldwide recognition. This accolade comes thanks to the House of Spain at the International Exhibition in Zaragoza, which is set to see between six and seven million visitors in the space of three months. Born in 1957, the architect has won a stream of prizes and awards since the Best Project Prize was his at the end of his studies at the University of Navarra in 1981. His work in Zaragoza gives him the chance to show off his personality and to present some of his most important projects. Mangado has led a very active professional life, juggling his career as an architect with teaching in Spain and the United States. From urban planning to public buildings and private houses that Mangado believes to be the main expression of architectural achievement in the social sphere, his works have revealed a more complex content over recent years. The architect confirms that his onsite presence is even greater nowadays. He takes decisions on whether to use such and such a material, or on how to build using specific ideas. His planning comes out of very precise spatial considerations. To improve the quality of space, light, comfort – that is what is essential to him. This is not a case of opting for a superficial, image-based architecture, but rather an “intelligent” architecture – not intelligent in terms of technology or automation, but rather in terms of the relationship with surroundings and the environment. He does not lose sight of the fact that architecture is a humanist activity which, if it can have an artistic essence, must materialise itself as part of a definite work and be useful to the community. Architecture’s ultimate, most beautiful expression must take on a material value. At fifty years old, Mangado is a happy man. This is thanks to his architecture – his raison d’etre – but above all thanks to the impressive number of friends won over by his architecture. Isn’t it true that large-scale projects need the energies of lots of people to see the light of day?
1. Francisco Mangado
2. Bodegas Marco Real, Olite 1991
A dialogue between nature and architecture, this project also claims to bring together traditional typologies and wine-making buildings. New methods of wine-making and the architectural process come together to reinvent a tradition.
3. Sports Club, Zuasti 1995
The main challenge in this ambitious project was how to integrate it into an extraordinary natural landscape. The solution is based around an old, restored building, new materials and construction systems alongside new architectural elements with clearly contemporary, formal values.
4. Navarra Conference Centre and Auditorium, Pamplona 2003
The architectural language used provided the biggest surprise in this major project: the auditorium roof is constructed in the shape of a ship’s sail, rising up like a sculpture. On the construction side, the architect opted for glass, exposed concrete and natural wood. The exterior is covered in dark grey Zimbabwe granite while the interior shows off its stainless steel and Padauk and beech wood.
5. Technological Research Centre CEIT, San Sebastian 2003
With its austere shape, this project was formed by the topography of its steeply inclined location. The building is set out in a form required by the structure of its laboratories. Large in size, with lots of natural light reaching down to the lower level and the corridors. The “bridge” linking the supporting wall and the building provides access. The roofing provides a large overhang over this entranceway, protecting it from the rain and creating a special relationship with the landscape.
6. Centre for New Technology, Santiago de Compostela 2007
This project meets the requirements set out by the site configuration, as well as a functional vision for the purpose of the centre which will be subject to change over the years. Based around a structure made of pre-stressed concrete and a light construction system, the building is made up of two main parallel areas separated by a large glazed patio and a series of bridges soaring over a wooded garden.
7. House of Spain, Zaragoza Expo 2008
Following the general theme of the event, the aim of this building is to present a dynamic, modern and creative vision of Spain with regard to water. Not only water as the main feature in the exhibition halls, but also a visible design element. The architect has created a "natural space" made of a set of terracotta columns set within a water feature. This is a “simple but rich room where light travels around the high trees and the noise of the water evokes an experience that can be considered luxurious”. Built over 8000m² and distributed over three levels, this building was designed using energy saving criteria. Providing some useful shade, the large roof supports a set of solar panels and collects water. The multiple ceramic columns, strengthened by steel, generate a veritable microclimate.
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1. Francisco Mangado
2. Bodegas Marco Real
3. Sports Club
4. Navarra Conference Centre and Auditorium
5. Technological Research Centre CEIT
6. Centre for New Technology
7. House of Spain
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